Alice Stewart, a popular CNN political commentator and veteran political consultant, died Saturday at the age of 58. Stewart’s body was discovered early Saturday morning outside in the Bellevue neighborhood of northern Virginia, according to CNN.
Law enforcement officials told the news network that no foul play is suspected. Police believe Stewart, who worked on multiple Republican presidential campaigns, likely suffered a medical emergency.
CNN Worldwide Chairman and CEO Mark Thompson announced the sad news in an email to staff on Saturday, calling Stewart a “very dear friend.”
Mr. Thompson writes: “Alice was a much-valued friend and colleague to all of us at CNN. A political veteran and Emmy Award-winning journalist, she brought unparalleled brilliance to CNN’s reporting and contributed to her political knowledge. He is also known throughout our bureau for his unwavering kindness. Our hearts are heavy as we mourn this tremendous loss.”
It remains unclear what illness Stewart may have been suffering from. According to his last Instagram post, Stewart appeared on Blitzer’s show the day before his death.
She shared a photo of the newsroom and wrote, “It’s always a sunny day to join the amazing @wolfblitzer on #CNN with @mariacardonadc!”
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz mourned Stewart’s sudden death. Cruz shared a photo of Stewart on X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, “Heartbreaking. Alice was an amazing, talented, and dear friend. And she truly loved America. She lived every day to the fullest and will be sorely missed. May God’s comfort and peace rest with her loved ones.” Ms. Stewart said in 2016. She served as communications director for the Republican presidential campaign.
My heart feels like it’s going to burst. Alice was a wonderful, talented and dear friend. And she passionately loved America.
She lived each day to the fullest and will be sorely missed. May God’s comfort and peace be with her loved ones. RIP. https://t.co/rXN6iugepM
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) May 18, 2024
Born in Atlanta in 1966, Ms. Stewart began her career as a local reporter. She joined CNN as a political commentator prior to her 2016 election.
Ms. Stewart was a regular on-air contributor, providing insight on the day’s political news. She most recently appeared on “The Situation Room with Wolf Blitzer” on Friday.